08/19/2026
North District Crime Watch
Aggravated Assault Prevention & Conflict Avoidance
From the Desk of “Mr. G” – Crime Watch Specialist
Hello North District neighbors!
It’s been a busy stretch across Indianapolis, even as we dry out from the heavy downpours and local street flooding over the past week. Thank you to everyone keeping an eye out for clogged neighborhood storm drains and helping neighbors clear debris.
Despite the rain, the energy in the city is high. Down on 38th Street, the Indiana State Fair is heading into its final big stretch through Sunday. Downtown, we’ve been hosting thousands of association leaders for the major ASAE Annual Meeting at the Convention Center. Over at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana Fever keep delivering exciting basketball, and the Colts are getting ready for their upcoming home preseason matchup at Lucas Oil Stadium.
With large crowds, hot humid days, and heavy traffic moving through our district, friction points naturally go up. Citywide and district data show a recent bump in aggravated assaults—often stemming from simple arguments that spiraled out of control. This week, we are focusing on a vital safety topic: Aggravated Assault Prevention & Conflict Avoidance.
Understanding Aggravated Assault & Conflict Escalation
An aggravated assault or felony battery rarely starts out as a serious crime. It usually begins as a routine argument—over a parking spot, a line-cut, minor property damage, or a personal dispute—where one or both parties refuse to walk away.
The Incident: In crowded venues, traffic bottlenecks, or neighborhood gatherings, minor stress can quickly turn into verbal hostility. When high tempers are combined with weapons, alcohol, or aggressive posturing, a verbal disagreement can turn into a life-altering violent felony in seconds.
The Legal Context (Indiana Code § 35-42-2-1.5 & § 35-42-2-1): Under Indiana law, Battery or Assault becomes an aggravated felony when it results in serious bodily injury or involves the use of a deadly weapon. Penalties carry significant prison time. Claiming "he started it" or "I was provoked verbally" is not a legal defense for escalating to physical violence.
Real-World Example: Two drivers get into a minor fender-bender on a congested corridor near an event lot. Instead of staying in their cars and calling police, both drivers step out and start shouting. As insult trades for insult, one driver reaches into their car, displays a weapon, or physically attacks the other, turning an insurance claim into a major felony investigation.
Mr. G’s Safety Tips: Defuse, Disengage, and Distance
Egos Away, Eyes on the Exit: No argument over a parking space, a traffic maneuver, or a loud neighbor is worthy of your physical safety or a court date. If someone tries to provoke you verbally, do not take the bait. A calm, neutral nod followed by walking away is the fastest way to kill a conflict.
Create Physical Distance: If someone approaches you aggressively, immediately step back. Keep your hands open at chest level—this natural gesture sets a boundary, protects your upper body, and communicates to bystanders and police that you are trying to de-escalate.
Never Pull Over or Drive Home If Followed: If you are driving and another driver exhibits road rage, do not pull over, do not roll down your window, and do not drive to your home. Drive straight toward a well-lit, populated area or the nearest police department zone station while calling 911.
Know When to Involve Law Enforcement: If you see an argument escalating into physical threats or see a weapon displayed in public, do not step into the middle of it yourself. Get to a secure spot immediately and dial 911 with a clear description of the individuals involved, their location, and any vehicles.
Mr. G’s Final Notes
Real strength is having the discipline to walk away from a bad situation. As our summer events wrap up and we transition into fall, let's keep our cool on the roads, give each other some grace in crowded places, and keep our neighborhoods safe. Look out for one another, report suspicious behavior, and let's keep Indy safe and strong!
Gerardo Becerra | Crime Watch Specialist
North District | Operations Division
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
3120 East 30th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46218
Office: 317-327-3781
Email: [email protected]
